5 Beginner Multiple Regression Books to Build Your Foundation

These Multiple Regression Books, authored by respected names like Jacob Cohen and Douglas C. Montgomery, provide clear, approachable guidance for beginners diving into statistical analysis.

Updated on June 27, 2025
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Every expert in multiple regression started exactly where you are now—facing a pile of concepts that seem more intimidating than inviting. Multiple regression is a cornerstone of statistical analysis, unlocking the ability to understand complex relationships between variables across fields from psychology to engineering. The good news? Learning multiple regression is very achievable when you have the right resources that break down the complexity without losing rigor.

The books featured here were written by authors with deep expertise and experience teaching multiple regression to newcomers. Figures like Jacob Cohen and Douglas C. Montgomery have crafted texts that focus on clarity and real-world applications, balancing theory with approachable examples so you can build confidence in your skills.

While these beginner-friendly books provide excellent foundations, readers seeking content tailored to their specific learning pace and goals might consider creating a personalized Multiple Regression book that meets them exactly where they are. Personalized learning can bridge gaps and accelerate mastery in ways general books sometimes cannot.

Jacob Cohen was a prominent psychologist known for his pioneering work in statistical methodology within behavioral sciences. His expertise and experience led him to co-author this book, designed to demystify multiple regression analysis for researchers and students. By focusing on applied, data-analytic approaches rather than heavy mathematics, Cohen connected his background directly to helping you gain practical skills in statistical modeling, making this book a solid foundation for those entering the field.
Applied Multiple Regression/Correlation Analysis for the Behavioral Sciences, 3rd Edition book cover

by Jacob Cohen, Patricia Cohen, Stephen G. West, Leona S. Aiken··You?

2002·736 pages·Multiple Regression, Regression, Statistical Analysis, Data Interpretation, Effect Size

After decades of grappling with complex statistical methods, Jacob Cohen and his co-authors crafted a text that breaks down multiple regression into understandable, applied concepts tailored for behavioral science researchers. You’ll learn to specify regression models that directly tackle your research questions, supported by clear verbal explanations and numerous examples, including chapters that review foundational statistics to strengthen your base. The book’s emphasis on graphics, confidence intervals, and effect size measures enhances your ability to interpret data meaningfully. If you’re a graduate student or researcher in psychology or related fields seeking a less mathematical introduction that still respects statistical rigor, this book offers a grounded, practical pathway.

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Best for engineering and science beginners
Douglas C. Montgomery, professor of industrial engineering at Arizona State University, brings extensive expertise to this text. His experience in both teaching and applying statistics drives this book’s clear explanations and practical focus, making it approachable for beginners. Montgomery’s background ensures you’re learning from someone who understands the challenges of grasping regression concepts and has designed this book to bridge theory with application effectively.
Introduction to Linear Regression Analysis, 3rd Edition book cover

by Douglas C. Montgomery, Elizabeth A. Peck, G. Geoffrey Vining··You?

2001·672 pages·Regression, Multiple Regression, Linear Regression, Model Building, Statistical Inference

Drawing from decades of experience in industrial engineering, Douglas C. Montgomery, alongside Elizabeth A. Peck and G. Geoffrey Vining, crafted this book to make regression analysis understandable and applicable. You gain a solid grounding in linear regression concepts, from basic inference to handling complex issues like multicollinearity and model validation, illustrated with examples relevant across science and engineering fields. Chapters also explore robust regression methods and generalized linear models, giving you tools to tackle real data challenges confidently. This book suits those beginning their journey in regression, especially in technical disciplines, offering a rigorous but accessible approach without overwhelming jargon.

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Best for custom learning pace
This AI-created book on multiple regression is tailored to your skill level and learning goals. You share your current background and which regression topics interest you most, and the book is created to focus exactly on what you want to achieve. It’s designed to ease you into concepts progressively, so you can build confidence without feeling overwhelmed. This personalized approach makes mastering multiple regression a clear and approachable journey.
2025·50-300 pages·Multiple Regression, Regression Fundamentals, Statistical Concepts, Model Building, Variable Selection

This tailored book explores multiple regression through a progressive, beginner-friendly lens designed to build your confidence steadily. It covers foundational concepts at a comfortable pace, removing overwhelm by focusing on your current background and learning goals. The content is carefully tailored to match your interests and skill level, providing clear explanations and practical examples that foster understanding without unnecessary complexity. By guiding you through core ideas step-by-step, it reveals how multiple regression models uncover relationships between variables across diverse fields. This personalized approach ensures you gain thorough knowledge efficiently, helping you navigate the subject with clarity and assurance.

Tailored Guide
Confidence Building
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for social science students
Aki Roberts is an associate professor specializing in sociology and criminology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where she teaches undergraduate and graduate statistics courses. Drawing from extensive classroom experience, she developed this text to help students grasp multiple regression concepts through approachable explanations and manageable datasets. Her background in policing and crime statistics informs a practical approach that prepares you to analyze social science data confidently.
Multiple Regression: A Practical Introduction book cover

by Aki Roberts, John M. Roberts··You?

2020·280 pages·Regression, Multiple Regression, Statistics, Data Analysis, Sociology

After decades of teaching social science statistics, Aki Roberts and John M. Roberts crafted this book to make multiple regression accessible without requiring more than a basic statistics background. You’ll find clear explanations of how dependent variables relate to multiple independent variables, supported by manageable datasets and practical examples using SPSS, Stata, SAS, and R. The authors’ experience shines through in chapters that demystify complex concepts through straightforward interpretations and hands-on exercises. This book suits advanced undergraduates, beginning graduate students, and anyone looking for a solid refresher before tackling more advanced statistical methods.

Published by SAGE Publications
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Best for self-study beginners
Anusha Illukkumbura holds MSc and B.A degrees in Statistics with 9 years of experience in data analysis. She specializes in teaching statistics to individuals, focusing on areas where students commonly struggle. Her clear and practical approach shines through in this book, designed to make regression analysis accessible to beginners and useful for self-study and exam preparation.
Introduction to Regression Analysis (Easy Statistics) book cover

by Anusha Illukkumbura··You?

2020·121 pages·Regression, Multiple Regression, Statistical Software, Residual Testing, Parameter Testing

During her extensive work teaching statistics, Anusha Illukkumbura noticed many students struggle with the complexities of regression analysis. This book breaks down core concepts like correlation, simple and multiple linear regression, residual tests, and non-linear regression, guiding you through manual calculations and software tools such as Minitab and R. You’ll learn to interpret statistical outputs and understand advanced topics like ANOVA, multi-collinearity, and stepwise regression in a clear, approachable way. It’s a solid starting point if you want to grasp the foundations and nuances of regression without getting lost in jargon or overly technical explanations.

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What makes this book a standout introduction to multiple regression is its focus on clarity and practical application rather than heavy mathematics. Designed especially for newcomers, it breaks down statistical concepts with verbal explanations and numerous examples, guiding you through specifying regression models that directly address research questions in behavioral sciences. The text covers foundational ideas like bivariate correlation and effect size measures, enhanced by graphics and supported by data and code for popular software like SPSS and SAS. This makes it a reliable resource for students and researchers aiming to master applied multiple regression without getting lost in technical jargon.
512 pages·Multiple Regression, Data Analysis, Statistical Modeling, Correlation Analysis, Effect Size

Jacob and Patricia Cohen Cohen’s decades of expertise in behavioral science statistics led to this approachable guide that strips away complex math to focus on practical understanding. You’ll learn how to frame regression models that speak directly to your research questions, with plenty of examples illustrating key concepts like confidence intervals and effect sizes. The book’s structure allows you to tackle chapters independently, making it easier to absorb topics like bivariate correlation or specifying models without feeling overwhelmed. If you’re diving into multiple regression for the first time or seeking a clear, methodical reference, this book offers a grounded introduction tailored to applied research across social sciences.

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Best for personal coding plans
This AI-created book on multiple regression coding is crafted based on your background and skill level. You share which software and coding aspects you want to focus on, along with your current understanding and goals. The book is then created to match your pace, helping you gain confidence without feeling overwhelmed. This tailored learning experience guides you through the essential steps, focusing only on what matters to you.
2025·50-300 pages·Multiple Regression, Statistical Software, Code Implementation, Data Preparation, Model Diagnostics

This tailored book explores the practical application of multiple regression analysis through popular statistical software, designed to match your experience and learning pace. It focuses on guiding you step-by-step from foundational concepts to confident use of code for effective data analysis. By concentrating on your interests and background, it removes overwhelm and builds your skills progressively, making complex topics accessible and engaging. Each chapter reveals clear explanations and practical examples that demystify software functions and coding techniques, helping you unlock the full potential of your data. This personalized approach ensures you engage with content that directly addresses your goals and comfort level, fostering a more rewarding learning journey.

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Software Coding Insights
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Conclusion

The five books highlighted here share a commitment to making multiple regression accessible without oversimplifying. They cover a range of approaches—from behavioral sciences to engineering—offering you choices that fit your background and interests.

If you’re completely new, starting with "Applied Multiple Regression/Correlation Analysis for the Behavioral Sciences, 3rd Edition" or "Introduction to Regression Analysis" provides a gentle, clear introduction. For a more technical progression, transitioning to Montgomery’s "Introduction to Linear Regression Analysis" offers deeper insight into model building and validation.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Multiple Regression book that fits your exact needs, interests, and goals to create your own personalized learning journey. Building a strong foundation early sets you up for success as you apply multiple regression techniques in your research or professional projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with books that focus on clear, approachable explanations like "Applied Multiple Regression/Correlation Analysis for the Behavioral Sciences." They build strong basics without heavy math, perfect for getting comfortable before moving to more technical texts.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Multiple Regression?

No, these selections are chosen specifically for beginners. For example, "Introduction to Regression Analysis" breaks down core concepts with practical examples, making complex ideas manageable for newcomers.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with applied introductions such as the Cohens' book, then progress to Montgomery's text for deeper theory. Complement with Roberts' practical guide to reinforce concepts with software applications.

Should I start with the newest book or a classic?

Both have value. Classics like Jacob Cohen’s work have stood the test of time for clarity and rigor, while newer books can offer updated examples and software guidance. Combining both is often best.

Do I really need any background knowledge before starting?

A basic understanding of statistics helps, but these books are designed to build foundational knowledge progressively, so you can start without extensive prior experience.

Can I get tailored learning instead of reading multiple books?

Absolutely. While these expert books provide solid foundations, you might benefit from a personalized Multiple Regression book that matches your pace and goals perfectly. Check out customized learning options here.

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